More power. Less fuel. That's the bare bones of the latest V8 equipped Mercedes AMG performance model – the E 63 AMG. The car's 5.5 liter biturbo V8 gives it a peak output of 386 kW (525 hp) and torque of 700 Nm – add on the optional AMG Performance package and it jumps to 410 kW (557 hp) and 800 Nm. Acceleration is specced at zero to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 4.2 seconds, top speed is 155 mph (250 km/h - electronically limited) and fuel consumption is down almost a quarter on its naturally aspirated predecessor at 24 mpg (9.8 liters per 100 kilometers). Needless to say, there's some impressive tech underlying these figures.
Here's what Mercedes has to say about the engine itself:
This eight-cylinder powerhouse, designated internally as the M 157, boasts a combination of innovative high-tech components: in addition to spray-guided direct petrol injection with piezo injectors, these include a full aluminum crankcase, four-valve technology with camshaft adjustment, air/water intercooling, generator management and a stop/start system.
The stop/start function or "Controlled Efficiency transmission mode" can be switched on and off via a button on the center console. As well as turning the engine off when the car is not moving, the system will also change gears "noticeably early" when engaged and uses braking energy recuperation to further boost fuel economy.
AMG's SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission is joined by the three mode AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension which has an electronically controlled damping system that adjusts automatically to driving conditions. "Comfort", "Sport" and "Sport plus" suspension modes can also be selected by the driver.
There's also a new electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive sports steering, which features variable power assistance that adapts according to the suspension mode and, like the stop/start system, helps reduce fuel consumption because it only draws power when the vehicle is actually being steered.
Safety-wise, new driving assistance systems have been added including Active Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist. The former warns the driver if there is a risk in changing lanes and if another vehicle gets too close without the driver reacting, the system automatically brakes on the opposite side of the vehicle to avoid a collision.
The Active Lane Keeping Assist performs a similar function if the driver drifts out of a lane. As well as applying the brakes on the the opposite wheels, this system can also warn the driver by generating vibrations through the steering wheel.
The AMG Performance package brings with it an increase in the maximum charge pressure (from 1.0 to 1.3 bar), a carbon-fiber engine cover, AMG Performance steering wheel with black Alcantara in the grip area and red-painted brake callipers and. The Saloon gets a carbon fiber AMG spoiler lip on the boot lid and the electric rear window blind.
The three-spoke design AMG Performance steering wheel is flattened at both top and bottom for better control and the interior is also notable for the inclusion of a three-dimensional full-color TFT display in the center of the speedometer.
An Estate model of the E 63 AMG has also been announced, and doesn't give up much in terms of performance – 0-62 mph in 4.3 seconds and the same electronically limited top speed.
